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Assistive technology and handwriting problems: what do occupational therapists recommend?
Andrew R Freeman1, Joyce R MacKinnon, Linda T Miller
1School of Occupational Therapy, The University of Western Ontario, 482 Platts Lane, London, ON. freebret@istar.ca
Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy. Revue Canadienne D'Ergotherapie
|September 16, 2004
Summary
Canadian occupational therapists frequently recommend keyboard and dictation strategies for students with handwriting difficulties. Key factors influencing these technology recommendations include equipment cost, funding, and school support.
Area of Science:
- Occupational therapy
- Assistive technology
- Pediatric interventions
Background:
- Handwriting difficulties are a common reason for occupational therapy referrals in students.
- Limited research exists on factors influencing technology recommendations for these students.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey Canadian occupational therapists regarding technology recommendations for students with handwriting challenges.
- To identify factors influencing occupational therapists' technology-related decisions.
Main Methods:
- Survey research methodology.
- Data collection on technology recommendations and decision-making factors.
Main Results:
- Keyboard-based strategies were recommended by 93% of therapists, compared to 72% for dictation-based strategies.
- Dictation to a scribe (93%) and desktop computers (89%) were the most frequently recommended strategies.
- Equipment cost, funding availability, and school support significantly influenced strategy selection.
Conclusions:
- Occupational therapists utilize a diverse range of technology solutions for students with handwriting difficulties.
- Factors influencing recommendations vary based on technology type, individual needs, and environmental context.
- Understanding these guiding factors offers insights into the practical application of assistive technologies.